For an annual list founded on fun, the Finalists for the National Toy Hall of Fame sure do spark some intense debates. “The BALLOON? The balloon isn’t a TOY!” That’s the honest, unvarnished, and immediate reaction blurted out by an otherwise level-headed veteran of the WISH-TV newsroom,

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) — The National Toy Hall of Fame is floating the idea of inducting balloons. Praised for their versatility and universal appeal, balloons made the list Wednesday of 12 finalists being considered for the honor later this year, alongside other first-time contenders including the trampoline and the party game Apples to Apples.

The National Toy Hall of Fame in Rochester, N.Y., announced this year's finalists for induction, including balloons, Pokemon cards and Transformers.

The National Toy Hall of Fame is floating the idea of inducting balloons. Praised for their versatility and universal appeal, balloons made the list Wednesday of 12 finalists being considered for the honor later this year,